EPH receptor B4

Ephrin receptors and their ligands, the ephrins, mediate numerous developmental processes, particularly in the nervous system. Based on their structures and sequence relationships, ephrins are divided into the ephrin-A (EFNA) class, which are anchored to the membrane by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol linkage, and the ephrin-B (EFNB) class, which are transmembrane proteins. The Eph family of receptors are divided into 2 groups based on the similarity of their extracellular domain sequences and their affinities for binding ephrin-A and ephrin-B ligands. Ephrin receptors make up the largest subgroup of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family. The protein encoded by this gene binds to ephrin-B2 and plays an essential role in vascular development. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

Receptor tyrosine kinase which binds promiscuously transmembrane ephrin-B family ligands residing on adjacent cells, leading to contact-dependent bidirectional signaling into neighboring cells. The signaling pathway downstream of the receptor is referred to as forward signaling while the signaling pathway downstream of the ephrin ligand is referred to as reverse signaling. Together with its cognate ligand/functional ligand EFNB2 it is involved in the regulation of cell adhesion and migration, and plays a central role in heart morphogenesis, angiogenesis and blood vessel remodeling and permeability. EPHB4-mediated forward signaling controls cellular repulsion and segregation from EFNB2-expressing cells.

Capillary malformation-arteriovenous malformation 2 (CMAVM2): An autosomal dominant disorder characterized by multiple, round to oval or more irregularly shaped macules that are pinkish red in color and are randomly distributed across the body. These capillary malformations are associated with either arteriovenous malformation, arteriovenous fistula, or Parkes Weber syndrome. [MIM:618196]

Lymphatic malformation 7 (LMPHM7): A form of primary lymphedema, a disease characterized by swelling of body parts due to developmental anomalies and functional defects of the lymphatic system. Patients with lymphedema may suffer from recurrent local infections. LMPHM7 is an autosomal dominant form with variable expressivity. Some individuals present with severe non-immune hydrops fetalis, which may cause perinatal demise or fully resolve after the neonatal period. Others present with no edema and have milder clinical features, such as atrial septal defect or varicose veins as adults. [MIM:617300]

You Might Also Like

The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Users with questions about a personal health condition should consult with a qualified healthcare professional.